After the mastectomy

So... some things in life just make me squeamish... catheters are one of them. I have never had one to my knowledge and hope to never have one. I've gone through surgeries where I have been under anesthia for a few hours, and still no catheter was needed. Will my doctor make me get one for my mastectomy?

I know people say you won't want to get up after it and the catheter will help, but I am exactly the opposite. Nothing will be better than to move around post-op. It's how I've always been post-op. Can I tell my doctor I don't want a catheter? Ahhhhhhhh.

I wouldn't think so ... I don't recall any pt. having a catheter following mastectomy. There would be no reason that you couldn't be up and around as soon as you feel able (the same day as surgery). I hope you don't mean all catheters because you will surely have one or more drains in place which in all essence are catheters but will be connected to small drainage bulbs. They certainly won't interfere with your being up and around because they will be left in place for a few days following surgery. You have the right idea about getting up and moving around .... this is most important for a speedy recovery. Best wishes ...

Oh, I am SO HAPPY to hear that! I am aware of the drain tubes, that won't bother me. I was speaking about the urinary catheter. Thanks so much for your input. It makes me feel a lot better! (My mother had her mastectomy 10 years ago and had a catheter, so she spooked me into thinking I would need one too!)

hi.. I have PASH in my Left Breast. I am 31. I am going to have to get a mastectomy because of the location of the lump and also the size. Think the size of an egg. I talked to an oncologist and he didn't want me on Tamoxifen either. So now I just face the surgery and reconstruction. I just thought I would say hi... :) and see how things are going. And if you have advice you can pass on or just want someone to talk to....

Hey, kiddo, no catheter, and you will be surprised how relatively painless this surgery will be. I had zero pain whatsoever and then a few hours later, yes, a little but it's nothing compared to other surgeries.

When I had my c-sections they put in catheters and I HATE them, too. must be even worse for men. Then my sister had a hysterectomy in holland and she told me they put it in after they put her to sleep. Why can't they do this here?

The Content on this Site is presented in a summary fashion, and is intended to be used for educational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be and should not be interpreted as medical advice or a diagnosis of any health or fitness problem, condition or disease; or a recommendation for a specific test, doctor, care provider, procedure, treatment plan, product, or course of action. Med Help International, Inc. is not a medical or healthcare provider and your use of this Site does not create a doctor / patient relationship. We disclaim all responsibility for the professional qualifications and licensing of, and services provided by, any physician or other health providers posting on or otherwise referred to on this Site and/or any Third Party Site. Never disregard the medical advice of your physician or health professional, or delay in seeking such advice, because of something you read on this Site. We offer this Site AS IS and without any warranties. By using this Site you agree to the following Terms and Conditions. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your physician or 911 immediately.